11 October 2022, Christchurch: Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will join the national squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Australia 2022 in Brisbane on Saturday, 15 October, after completing his treatment program under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Committee*.
Shaheen is now available for selection for the warm-up matches against England and Afghanistan on October 17 and 19, respectively, during which his match fitness will be tested by team management.
Shaheen Shah Afridi: “I ’m extremely excited about the prospect of coming back to the national team for the T20 World Cup and having contributed to the contest.” It has been difficult for me to be away from the game and the team I most appreciate, and to miss out on some strenuous and exciting matches.
“I’ve been bowling six to eight overs with full run-up and pace for the past ten days with no problems.” While I’ve enjoyed bowling and batting in the nets, nothing beats the atmosphere of a match, and I can’t wait to be there.
“It was an intensive and difficult treatment program, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.” To be honest, I’m feeling better than ever and can’t wait to put on the playing gear.
“I’d like to bless the PCB Medical Advisory Committee and Crystal Palace Football Club for having allowed me to use their good features and for taking such great care of me during my recovery.”
Meanwhile, opener Fakhar Zaman will join Shaheen and National High-Performance Centre coach Umar Rashid in Brisbane as one of three trying to travel savings for the T20 World Cup.
*The PCB Medical Advisory Committee includes Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad (Head of Medical Services at Queens Park Rangers Football Club and Co-Chair of the FA Medical Society) and Dr. Zafar Iqbal, both of London (Consultant Sports & Exercise Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club & Co-chair FA Medical Society and has previously worked with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC, and Kent County Cricket Club). Dr. Najeebullah Soomro, PCB Chief Medical Officer, receives independent medical advice from these members (who is also a Member of the ICC Medical Advisory Committee).